Multi-response optimization of crashworthiness parameters of bi-tubular structures

This article aims at presenting multi objective optimization of parameters that affect crashworthiness characteristics of bi-tubular structures using Taguchi method with grey relational analysis. To design the experiments, the L₉ orthogonal array has been used and based on that, the inner tubes have been fabricated by varying the three influence factors such as reference diameter, length difference and numbers of sides of the polygon with three levels, but all the outer cylinders have the same diameter and length 90 mm and 135 mm respectively. Then, the tailor made bi-tubular steel structures were subjected into quasi static axial compression. From the test results it is found that the crushing behaviors of bi-tubular structures with different combinations were fairly significant. The important responses (crashworthiness indicators) specific energy absorption and crush force efficiency have been evaluated from load - displacement curve. Finally optimal levels of parameters were identified using grey relational analysis, and significance of parameters was determined by analysis of variance. The optimum crashworthiness parameters are reference diameter 80 mm, length difference 0 mm and number of sides of polygon is 3, i.e., triangle within the selected nine bi-tube combinations.